A Tattoo That’s Turning Heads

The double armband tattoo has been popping up more and more—especially in the LGBTQ+ community. But its meaning? It’s not what most people expect.

Though it looks like a clean, minimal design, this ink comes with a surprisingly NSFW backstory. In fact, it’s not the kind of thing you’d want to explain to your grandmother—unless she’s the open-minded type.

Tattoos With a Twist

Tattoos with unintended meanings are nothing new. Everyone’s heard a story about someone who thought they got a meaningful phrase in a foreign language, only to learn it says something crude.

But how about a guy who accidentally ended up with a tattoo associated with fisting?

The Roots: BDSM and Brent Everett

That’s right—this seemingly simple tattoo traces back to the world of LGBTQ+ BDSM. According to Pink News, it’s even been linked to well-known adult film star Brent Everett.

TikTok user and author Mr. Lewis Laney shared his own experience.
“I have a double armband tattoo,” he said, showing it off. “Gay men often ask me what it means. They think it’s about fisting. Apparently, the bands show how far you can go.”

Laney admitted he didn’t know the sexual connotation when he first got inked.
“I saw it on Brent Everett when I was in my 20s. I liked how it looked. So I got it at 30—and I still do.”

How the Tattoo Took Off

Brent Everett’s influence seems to have helped popularize the tattoo. On Reddit, some users claim the ink’s meaning is a nod to being a “fister,” with the bands marking depth. Others agree Everett made the look iconic.

But the meaning isn’t universal. Not everyone sporting this tattoo is making a sexual statement.

Other Interpretations

Some see the double bands as a symbol of equality. To them, the design resembles the equal sign, representing unity in the LGBTQ+ community.

Others take a lighter approach. One popular joke says it symbolizes the impressive skill of reaching into a Pringles can—a real feat, depending on the arm size.

Still, armband tattoos in general can carry a range of meanings. A single band might represent mourning, strength, or good luck. Placement and number often influence interpretation.

Fans of celebrities like Tyler Joseph from Twenty One Pilots have also embraced the style. His own two-band tattoo has inspired plenty of imitations.

Should Women Avoid Men With This Tattoo?

Some people joke that women should steer clear of men with double armband tattoos. But let’s not overgeneralize.

Tattoos mean different things to different people. Some get them as a nod to adult film stars. Others simply like the design. And not everyone with this ink is into BDSM—or even knows the backstory.

The Final Take

Yes, the double armband tattoo has ties to BDSM culture and adult entertainment. But its meaning has evolved.

For some, it’s a private signal. For others, it’s about style, equality, or personal tribute. Sometimes, it means nothing at all.

So next time you see someone with this ink, don’t assume. Tattoos are personal—and that’s what makes them powerful.